Start a Dream Way to the Magic Milford Sound Fiordland

it's time to leave Queenstown and start your journey to the fairyland of the fjords.

The first stop for today is Five Rivers Cafe which helps you to go further in a perfect mood. Try here eggs Benedict with bacon and Salmon. There will be also a good idea to Take coffee "to go" and some snacks to picnic in Milford Sound later today, and continue your way refreshed.
Open hours: 8:00 – 16:00 daily

On the way to Milford Sound there are many magnificent places worth stopping. And Eglinton Vally's beautiful landscape, which was once a glacier, is one of them. The photo does not convey the majesty of nature which takes your breath away. You should feel it. just get out of the car, breathe in, and feel the moment.

Stunning little reflective lakes along the road on your way to the fiord. The mountains reflect into the calm lake's water making a picture-perfect reflection. To be honest, it looks better in photos than in real life) Nevertheless, it is worth getting out of the car, warming up, and taking photos of wonderful mirror lakes.

Just a few minutes before Homer Tunel the lookout platform with a breathtaking view. Worth to stop, refreshing, and make beautiful photos. Virtually untouched for millennia, the snow-capped mountains of the Southern Alps and ancient natural rainforests combine with untouched and breathtaking scenery.

Moving on, you will come to the famous Homer's tunnel. There is only one way to get to Milford - through this narrow tunnel in the mountain. Turn your light on before entering the Tunnel on your route. During waiting in line before the tunnel, you can meet and feed local wild big parrots - Kea🦜. They are very curious and absolutely not afraid of people.

After a long journey, a prize awaits you - the Milford Sound fjord itself. Mountain peaks disappear into the clouds, and in the distance roaring the waterfalls falling into dark waters create the magic of this place.
There are many ways to explore this wonderful place: walk along the bay to the waterfall, hike along the hiking trails, take a boat cruise through the fjord, and rent kayaks.
Tips: Boat cruising Kayaking

So, you are there. Park your car to explore this fantastic land on foot.
Parking information
You can also live the car at Deepwater Basin Parking&Bus which is free. Just be ready for a 30-minute walk to the pier where the cruises depart or you can take the free shuttle bus.

Before you explore the beauties of Milford Sound, it's worth eating.
There are not many options to eat here. So you can try this cafe with minimal options for food or, what is better, get your own snacks in nature. Some boat cruises also offer a food option. Check this during the booking process.
Open hours: 9:30 – 16:00 daily.

Moving towards the pier where fjord boat cruises start, you can admire the view of a spectacular waterfall - Bowen Falls. Then, sailing on a ship near it, you can fully feel its power and take bright photos of seagulls soaring in a veil of spray. So, prepare your camera and be ready to shoot.

Сontinuing to explore the fjord from the water, you can truly appreciate the true size and beauty of Milford. You can look at sheer cliffs that go deep underwater, see waterfalls nearby, and watch birds and Fur Seals who relax on Seal Rock. In spring and early summer, you can see the very rare Fiordland crested penguin. So, a good idea to choose and book the boat cruise from one of the boat operators in advance.
Tips: most coaches arrive at Milford for a cruise at 1 pm. If you like to avoid the crowd plan your departure at another time.
Book here You can also choose any other operator

After cruising there is worth stretching your legs and getting a light hike to Lookout by the Milford Foreshore Walk. This short trail begins from the parking lot and is easy to find. Walking in silence will give you completely different emotions. Going ashore just stand on the shore of the reservoir and feel an eternity.

Once you have crossed the bridge during your walk to Lookout, in the trees, hid a wonderful swing. According to available information, the swing was built by one of the workers at the Milford Sound camp for his girlfriend. But, as experience has shown, they can fit perfectly together. Stop there for a while and make an unforgettable picture on a swing against the background of the fjord.

Time to have dinner. Redcliff Café is located in the cottage of the first settlers. It is worth enjoying the cozy atmosphere by choosing a seat on the terrace and ordering the highest quality New Zealand beef or lamb, accompanied by a glass of bright New Zealand red wine.
Open hours: 16:00 – 00:00 daily.

Just five minutes drive from the restaurant, on the shore of lake Te Anau is located cozy Fiordland Lakeview Motel with a beautiful view. It is worth having a good rest after a day full of emotions and preparing for the new adventures of the next day.